What to see
Schönbrunn Palace
One of the key landmarks of the Historic City of Vienna UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Schönbrunn Palace has stood for well over three centuries and is an exceptional example of European Baroque architecture. The building, which was a royal residence until the early 20th century, overlooks the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace Garden, has an elaborate Neoclassical interior and a stunning French-themed garden in the Great Parterre.
The Belvedere
Another enchanting complex comprising two enormous Baroque palaces, Belvedere was completed in the early 18th century and is noted for its spectacular Marble Hall ceiling painting and other majestic Baroque rooms. Since 1903, the site has been the home of the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere museum, where you can see many intriguing Austrian art collections from the late medieval period to the contemporary era.
The State Opera House
Founded in the 1860s, Vienna State Capital is an opulent Neorenaissance building by the eminent Czech artist Josef Hlávka, who was born in the historic Czech town of P?eštice, then part of the Austrian Empire. Musicians of the orchestra can, normally after lengthy experience at this venue, apply to join the Vienna Philharmonic, one of the world's foremost orchestras, which performs at the prestigious Musikverein concert hall.
The Imperial Palace of Hofburg
Another former imperial palace, Hofburg Palace has existed since the 13th century, although it was altered on multiple occasions until the end of the 19th century, and, consequently, has a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles.
Visit the splendid Imperial Apartments, and see thousands of historic ceremonial and tableware items once used by royal figures, at the Sisi Museum's Silver Chamber Imperial Silver Collection. The complex, which was the home of almost every Austrian monarch since the 13th century, comprises 2,600 rooms in 18 stupendous buildings and is regularly open to the public.
Eating out in the Austrian capital
Treat yourself to some divine steaks at the high-end Dstrikt Steakhouse, enjoy some delightful Austrian and international dishes at the Hill Restaurant, or dine at Le Ciel for other delectable local - and French - themed recipes. The Mini restaurant provides more delicious international flavours, while the Lola Spanisches Tapas Restaurant specialises in vibrant Spanish-inspired food.
Accommodation in the city
If you're looking for affordable holidays in Vienna, you might want to consider booking a stay at the Motel One Wien Westbahnhof, the Star Inn Hotel Wien Schonbrunn, or the Rainers Hotel Vienna. Other sought-after hotels in the city include the deluxe Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom, the exquisite Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna, and highly sophisticated Hotel Sacher Wien.
